Bhan Pratap is a familiar face at the Nausori Market, where he has spent over a decade selling mudcrabs, lobsters, and prawns. At 70 years old, Mr. Prasad welcomes customers with a warm demeanor, making them feel at home in the bustling market environment.
“I enjoy coming to the market as I get a chance to meet different people,” he shared during our initial conversation. He described the market as a close-knit community where everyone knows each other, almost like a big caring family.
Residing in Vunimono, near Nausori town, Mr. Pratap makes the journey to the market five days a week from Tuesday to Saturday, noting that weekends are particularly busy with shoppers.
This venture has been vital for Mr. Pratap and his family’s financial stability, serving as their primary source of income. He sources his seafood from local fishermen and fresh produce vendors, positioning himself as a middleman. “This business has really helped me and my family a lot,” he stated.
However, the competition among vendors presents a daily challenge. Mr. Pratap acknowledges the numerous other sellers in the market and understands that this is beyond his control. To stand out, he emphasizes the importance of quality and service in order to make daily sales.
“By ensuring that my produce is fresh and attractively displayed, I am able to draw a lot of customers,” he explained. Additionally, he invests time in building relationships with his regular customers, keeping track of their preferences and offering personalized suggestions.
Despite the tough competition, Mr. Pratap takes pleasure in his weekly visits to the market, as it keeps him active. He urges other vendors and small business owners to prioritize freshness and quality in their offerings. “Nowadays, some of the things we buy from the market and supermarket often disappoint us, as not all vendors sell quality goods,” he said, stressing the importance of maintaining high standards in marketing to avoid customer dissatisfaction.